Utica, NY: James E. Critelli, 79, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, Saturday, February 12, 2022, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Jim was born in Utica, June 19, 1942, a son of the late Ernest and Carmella “Cora” (Pietrafesa) Critelli. He was raised and educated in local schools, graduating from T. R. Proctor High School. Jim married the love of his life, Catherine “Kay” Heigle, on June 23, 1962, at St. Agnes Church in Utica. They shared a blessed marriage of over 59 years. Jim and Kay had the most memorable times while visiting their children and grandchildren in NC, SC, and FL.
Jim learned the trade of barbering from his father and along with his brother, Joe, they owned and operated the first barber school in the area, Utica School of Barbering and the University Barber Shop. Jim later worked for Brown and Williamson Tobacco Company and retired after more than 20 years of service.
He was a loving and caring family man and a true friend to many. He was sure to ignite a smile and a laugh by anyone who shared in his company; part of the last generation of true “gentlemen”. Jim was a cherished husband, father, and a beloved grandfather to his four grandchildren, Nick, Chris, Mike, and Jaden, who were his pride and joy. “Grandpa” was their biggest fan and could not wait to cheer them on. You could see him in the crowd at their football, hockey games, and cheerleading events; he didn't miss a one. Family get togethers would not be complete without games of pitch, a lot of food and laughter, and a little Frank Sinatra.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Catherine “Kay”; a son, James (Hannah) Critelli, FL; two daughters, Corinne (Stephen) Award, FL, and Maria (Chris) Boyer, Whitesboro; grandchildren, Nicholas (Meredith) Critelli, Christopher Boyer, Michael Boyer, and Jaden Critelli: his son Jim’s stepchildren, Donny & Dylan; brother, Joseph Critelli (Lorraine Fasolo); in-laws, Anthony (Betty) Heigle; and nephews and niece, Anthony (Anne) Falchi, Gary Falchi (Mary Ellen Schrader), Lynne Falchi (Mark Major), Richard (Helen) Hughes, Jack Hughes, Russel (Lisa) Critelli, Ernie Critelli (Nellie Jones), Tony Heigle, and Christine Gearheart. He also had many great nieces and nephews, cousins, and close friends, including Don and Kay Broccoli, and Eleanor and her late husband, John DeVito. Jim was predeceased by infant twin brothers, and two sisters, Lillian Hughes and Diane Falchi.
Jimmy and his long time buddies could be found playing a round of golf, a game of cards, or grabbing a cup of coffee and solving the world’s problems. He frequented his favorite restaurant, Delmonico’s, with the same friends for over 30 years, and was honored by having their caricatures enshrined on the wall in the bar. He had so many dear friends, too many to mention, but he loved them all.
Visitation will be on Thursday, February 17, 5-7 p.m., at Adrean Funeral Service, Inc., 700 Rutger St., Utica (at the Matt Funeral Home). Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated on Friday, February 18, 2022, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Anthony of Padua and St. Agnes Church, 422 Tilden Ave., Utica. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
A special thank you to the compassionate caregivers at the Abraham House of Utica and for the support of Hospice for Jim and his family.